Victor James Osimhen is one of the most electrifying footballers Africa has ever produced — a goal machine whose rise from the streets of Lagos to global football stardom is nothing short of breathtaking. Known for his blistering speed, tireless work rate, incredible aerial ability, and fierce determination, Osimhen has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and African excellence.
This is the full biography of the superstar striker who’s rewriting history in world football.
EARLY LIFE & BACKGROUND
Victor Osimhen was born on December 29, 1998, in Olusosun, Lagos State, Nigeria. Raised in a humble family with six siblings, Osimhen’s childhood was marked by hardship, hustle, and survival — selling sachet water and other small items in traffic to support his family.
Despite life’s challenges, young Victor clung tightly to one dream: becoming a professional footballer.
His raw talent was discovered while playing on dusty community fields, leading him to join the Ultimate Strikers Academy, where his journey toward global stardom began.
BREAKTHROUGH: FIFA U-17 WORLD CUP 2015
Osimhen’s life changed forever at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile, where he delivered one of the most dominant performances ever recorded at a youth tournament.
What he achieved:
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Scored 10 goals, breaking the all-time U-17 World Cup scoring record
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Won Golden Boot (Top Scorer)
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Won Silver Ball (2nd Best Player)
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Helped Nigeria win the World Cup for a historic 5th time
This tournament catapulted Osimhen into global recognition and opened the doors to Europe.
CLUB CAREER JOURNEY
Wolfsburg (Germany) — 2017
Osimhen signed with VfL Wolfsburg, becoming one of Nigeria’s most promising exports. Though injuries slowed him down, he refused to give up.
Charleroi (Belgium) — 2018/2019
Belgium became his rebirth. At Charleroi:
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He scored 20 goals
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Was voted Player of the Season
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Attracted major European clubs
Lille OSC (France) — 2019/2020
Osimhen joined Lille, and instantly became a superstar:
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Scored 18 goals in his debut season
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Won Ligue 1 African Player of the Year
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Named Lille Player of the Season
His performances caught the attention of Italian giants.
NAPOLI (ITALY) — Where He Became a Legend
In 2020, Osimhen signed for SSC Napoli for a then-African record fee of over €70 million.
Historic Achievements in Napoli:
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Led Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years (2022/2023 season)
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Finished as Serie A top scorer — the first African to achieve this
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Named CAF African Footballer of the Year 2023
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Became the highest-scoring African in Serie A history
Osimhen didn’t just play for Napoli — he made history in Naples and became a fan favorite worldwide.
INTERNATIONAL CAREER (SUPER EAGLES 🇳🇬)
Victor Osimhen is one of the deadliest strikers ever to play for the Nigerian national team.
Highlights:
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Debuted for the Super Eagles in 2017
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Played key roles in AFCON qualifiers
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Ranked among Nigeria’s top all-time goal scorers
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Instrumental in Nigeria’s qualification for major tournaments
His commitment to the national team has endeared him to millions of fans.
PLAYING STYLE
Osimhen is known for:
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Powerful finishing
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Fearless aerial ability
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Explosive pace
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Aggressive pressing
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Smart movement off the ball
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Physical strength and stamina
He is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Some of his major honors include:
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CAF African Footballer of the Year – 2023
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Serie A Top Scorer – 2023
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Globe Soccer Best Emerging Player
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African Most Valuable Player (Forbes)
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Napoli Top Scorer Award
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U-17 World Cup Golden Boot & Silver Ball
PERSONAL LIFE
Despite his global fame, Osimhen remains grounded, humble, and connected to his Nigerian roots. He regularly supports charity projects, especially focusing on children, education, and youth empowerment.
He is admired for his confidence, energy, and unshakeable belief in his dream — making him a true inspiration to young Africans.
NET WORTH, ENDORSEMENTS & INFLUENCE
Osimhen enjoys:
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A huge brand presence
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Endorsements with major global companies
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One of the highest salaries among African footballers
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Major social media influence
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Global fan base across Europe, Africa, and beyond
His story continues to motivate millions.
CONCLUSION
Victor Osimhen’s journey is the definition of determination, resilience, and destiny. From hawking in Lagos traffic to becoming Africa’s best footballer and a world-class striker, his rise remains one of the greatest success stories in modern African football.
Osimhen is not just a footballer —
he’s a symbol of hope, a legend in the making, and a pride of Nigeria.
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